How is ligamentum flavum treated?
The current treatment approach for LF thickening includes operative and nonoperative treatment. Operative treatment includes such procedures as excision of the LF, decompressive laminectomy, and minimally invasive decompression.
Is ligamentum flavum hypertrophy the same as spinal stenosis?
Ligamentum flavum (LF) hypertrophy is a common cause of lumbar spinal stenosis and is thought to be degeneration-driven. Developmental spinal stenosis (DSS) is characterized by pre-existing narrowed spinal canals and is likely a developmental problem that occurs in childhood.
What is spinal ligamentum flavum?
The ligamenta flava (singular, ligamentum flavum, Latin for yellow ligament) are a series of ligaments that connect the ventral parts of the laminae of adjacent vertebrae. They help to preserve upright posture, preventing hyperflexion, and ensuring that the vertebral column straightens after flexion.
Can ligamentum flavum hypertrophy be caused by trauma?
Although ligamentum flavum hypertrophy is not uncommon, it is usually seen in trauma as a result of tearing and scar formation or in spondylosis. This is the first case report of such a condition due to acromegaly in which the neurological symptoms are more often due to peripheral nerve and muscle abnormalities.
Does ligamentum flavum hypertrophy cause pain?
Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy is a common finding in patients with neglected spine issues. Those with chronic neck and back pain or long-standing sciatica-like symptoms often develop a hypertrophied ligamentum flavum. Moreover, hypertrophy of ligamentum flavum is rarely a condition that causes pain by itself.
What is unusual about the ligamentum flavum?
Ligamentum flavum literally means “yellow ligament,” and is so known because it has a yellow coloring due to the amount of elastin (a springy type of collagen). As we age, the ligament loses elastin, and this allows the ligament to encroach on the canal.
What does the ligamentum flavum do?
The function of the ligamentum flavum is to maintain upright posture. It helps to preserve the normal curvature of the spine and to straighten the column after it has been flexed. However, the elasticity of the ligamentum flavum decreases with age, and this may be associated with hypertrophy and buckling.
What does thickening of ligamentum flavum mean?
Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy is a condition in which the ligamentum flavum (LF) thickens due to stresses placed on the spine. With hypertrophy, ligamentum flavum (LF) increases in thickness (size). The thicker it becomes, the higher the risks of compressing the spinal cord or spinal nerves.